Buffalo Bills Face Unfamiliar Role as Underdogs in Home Playoff Battle

Historical Edge at Home

For Buffalo Bills fans accustomed to seeing their team as the favorites in Orchard Park, Sunday’s playoff matchup against the Baltimore Ravens introduces a fresh narrative. Since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970, the Bills have consistently played as the favorite in all 18 home playoff games. Historically, they've delivered, boasting a solid 15-3 straight-up record, and yet, sports betting is taking an intriguing turn.

A Shift in Odds

The Bills initially opened as a one-point favorite for their divisional round showdown. However, in an unexpected twist, bettors have shifted the odds, establishing the Ravens as the one-point favorites. This marks a potential first in over 50 years—Buffalo could officially become an underdog at their home stadium if these odds hold.

Underdog Struggles

The rarity of being an underdog at home is underscored by Buffalo's record when they don the tag. Historically, the Bills have found limited success as playoff underdogs, holding a 2-15 straight-up record. Since 1970, they haven’t secured a playoff victory in this role since their victory over the Steelers in the 1992 divisional round. They've since suffered nine straight playoff losses as the underdog.

High Stakes in Orchard Park

Beyond the intrigue of the odds, the stakes are exceptionally high. The winner of Sunday’s clash at 6:30 p.m. ET moves on to the AFC Championship game, facing off against either the Kansas City Chiefs or Houston Texans. Not to mention the emotional weight behind the game—a chance for the Bills to rewrite their legacy as underdogs.

Buffalo fans, already passionate and loyal, now have an added layer of anticipation. As they face the Ravens, it’s not just a playoff game; it’s an opportunity to transcend past narratives and embrace the unpredictable nature of postseason football. Whether as favorites or underdogs, the Bills' journey this Sunday promises to be a compelling chapter in their storied history.